SIHH 2018 (Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie Genève) has seen some interesting releases but this year Audemars Piguet really went all out, not mentioning that next year may see another in-house movement from the watchmaker. I’ll be looking at some of the highlights which also happen to be my favourite pieces from the show.
First up and a noteworthy mention is the 25th anniversary Royal Oak Offshore, also known as The Beast. This one, seen above is a re-edition of the original 1993 model with updates bringing it into 2018. This is the original Offshore which in 1993 stirred a lot of attention and since has garnered a big fan base, myself included.
From the past to the future. Audemars Piguet have released two limited Royal Oak Offshore Tourbillon Chronograph pieces, in stainless steel and in rose gold respectively. 50 pieces, 45mm casing with a all new movement design and Audemars Piguet have re-imagined this watch and it’s truly stunning.
The RD#2 Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin is a must as note only is it five years in the making but it’s the thinnest self-winding perpetual calendar at 6.3mm. That’s a feat in itself and AP once again proving they’re not just about design. To put it into perspective, it’s even thinner than the 15202 Ultra-Thin.
This year among the various colours of the diver, Audemars Piguet also released a new Royal Oak Offshore Diver in rose gold with titanium bezel and a light grey dial and matching grey rubber strap. At 42mm it’ll suit most wrists and in some ways it reminders me of a baby rose gold AP Schumacher or LeBron but in the diver “packaging”. I’ve been told this is limited too but from what I’ve seen, it’s a stunning piece.
Audemars Piguet really showed off this year at SIHH 2018 and what’s more interesting is they’re still keeping their production numbers the same which means that with all of these new releases, they’ll be more limited / exclusive and less of each release will be made which is good for those seeking that additional special feeling. Here’s a link to all of their new models.